Volunteer Sherry Hung steps up when disaster strikes. From training as a shelter supervisor to deploying across Kentucky, New Mexico, Georgia and California, Sherry organizes shelters, supports evacuees and brings hope to communities recovering from devastating losses—proving one person can make a powerful difference. (Photo courtesy Sherry Hung).
Gene Jeffers/American Red Cross
Combine an active mind, a diverse background and an insatiable curiosity about the next challenge and you’ve got Sherry Hung, American Red Cross Los Angeles Region disaster services volunteer.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Sherry began training with Red Cross Disaster Cycle Services (DCS), preparing for Shelter Supervisor and Shelter Resident Caseworker assignments. “At first there were very few deployment opportunities,” Sherry recalls. “That changed beginning in 2024.”
Working out of the East Los Angeles Commerce Chapter, Sherry has since deployed to disasters in Kentucky, New Mexico, Georgia and throughout California.
“That’s when Red Cross really hit me. We were there to help people figure out their next steps after losing everything,” Sherry said. “That’s important work. I could make a difference.”
When the Eaton Fire struck, Sherry supported city personnel at the Pasadena Red Cross shelter. “Turns out, they thought they were there to support Red Cross,” she laughs. “We all just dove in, organized and prepared to care for evacuees. So many came, a lot of elderly from nursing homes. People of all kinds. We gave them a safe place, a kind word. Let them know they were not alone.”
Sherry never expected a reward for her Red Cross work, and yet one has come. After meeting another volunteer at the Pasadena shelter, she learned of an employment opportunity, and now works full time as a deputy labor commissioner with the California Labor Commissioner’s Office.
“You never know in life where choices may lead. Red Cross has taught me so much about myself, and, happily, has led to a new career opportunity. How can you ask for more?”
Find your next journey by becoming a Red Cross volunteer at redcross.org/volunteer.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
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